Osaka Prints - Produced in the Kansai region, including Osaka and Kyoto, Osaka prints or kamigata-e are instantly distinguishable from typical Edo ukiyo-e. A major difference is the choice of subject matter. Osaka prints were nearly always portraits of actors or kabuki scenes. In contrast, Edo print subjects included beauties, landscapes, nature scenes, warriors, and historic events, in addition to kabuki.

Distinctly different artistic styles also emerged in Edo and Osaka in the 18th and 19th century, resulting in certain recognizable characteristics for each area. Osaka prints feature more subtle, serious figures, reflecting the wagoto or soft style of acting prevalent in the area, along with distinctive facial expressions. The aragato or brash manner of acting popular in Edo influenced print designs towards bolder images of heroism and military prowess.

Much like the style of the prints, the demand for ukiyo-e in the cities of Osaka and Edo also varied. Osaka produced far fewer ukiyo-e designs than Edo did. As a consequence, Osaka prints are rarer and also some of the highest quality prints made in the 19th century, with many featuring deluxe techniques such as burnishing or embossing. Osaka prints are a rare and wonderful collecting area of Japanese woodblocks.

Comments - Handsome Osaka kabuki scene from Act 4 of the play "Sugawara Denju Tenarai Kagami," a drama about three triplets who become the victims of divided loyalties. At right, Matsuomaru, who works for the evil daimyo Shihei, angrily throws straw-wrapped bales at Umeomaru. Having caught one bundle, Umeomaru leaps on one foot as the other strikes him. A blossoming cherry tree frames the scene overhead, with petals drifting down through the sky, symbolizing the intransigence of life. From left, the actors are Jitsukawa Enzaburo and Arashi Kichisaburo III. Great expressive figures.

Artist - Kunikazu (active circa 1849 - 1867)

Image Size - 9 3/4" x 14 1/2" + margins as shown

Condition - This print with excellent detail as shown. Two separate panels. Staining and soiling, slight creasing. Please see photos for details.